Artwork

Persian Shawl-Merchant

Persian Shawl-Merchant, by Aloysius Rosarius Amadeus Raymondus Andreas Preziosi, watercolor, 1855
Persian Shawl-Merchant, by Aloysius Rosarius Amadeus Raymondus Andreas Preziosi, watercolor, 1855

Persian Shawl-Merchant is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Aloysius Rosarius Amadeus Raymondus Andreas Preziosi. It dates from 1855 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour depicts a figure identified as a Persian shawl-merchant, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing detailed, colourful attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is an itinerant dealer in Persian shawls, a theme recurring in other works of the period, such as the Curzon and Christie's albums. The figure's elaborate dress suggests a specific cultural or historical context.

Technique & Style

Executed in watercolour, the work features soft, light colours and a plain background, drawing focus to the subject's intricate, layered robes and accessories.

History & Provenance

The painting was acquired from N. Vilag in April 1966. It is part of a group of single-figure studies, with variations indicating possible copies or interpretations by the artist or others, including his daughter Mathilde.

Artist & collection